The popular image of tango is of a sensual dance, the epitome of romantic passion. In tango lyrics, however, there is only tragedy, hopelessness and unrequited love.

This talk will look at this perceived lack of correspondence, especially in songs between 1914 and 1930, when tango-canción was born in the outskirts of Buenos Aires and Montevideo.

The social context of the tragic characters depicted, and the demographics of Buenos Aires, can help us understand the music and the dance. Daniel Martín is a Senior Lecture in Spanish and the convener of the Spanish program at The Australian National University.

Presented by the Tango Social Club of Canberra in association with Old Parliament House.